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Ratchaburi (often shortened Rat'buri, Thai: ราชบุรี) is one of the Thailand’s central provinces (changwat). Neighbouring provinces are (from north clockwise) Kanchanaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Sakhon, Samut Songkhram and Phetchaburi. In the west it borders Tanintharyi Division of Myanmar. The provincial capital Ratchaburi is located 100 kilometres to the west of Bangkok. Its name originates from Sanskrit and translates as ‘Royal City’. Like its neighbour on this tour, Nakhon Pathom, its origins can be traced back to the Dvaravati period (6th-11th century) through the ancient town of Ban Khu Bua. Ratchaburi Province is a medium-sized province with an area of about 5,196 km2. The central regions of Ratchaburi province are fertile wetlands due to the flow of the main river, the Mae Klong, while to the west lies the Tenasserim mountains rising up to about 300 metres. This area is rich in mineral resources within a forested area of about 38%. Further to the west is the Tanawsri mountain range mostly of limestone. The main river in this part of Ratchaburi is the Phachi. Among the natural attractions are waterfalls and caves. For tourists, Ratchaburi has a number of attractions including Wat Phra Si Ratana Mahathat with its magnificent prang. Nearby, the ruins of the ancient town of Ban Khu Bua can be found. Amid its network of klongs is the famous Damnoen Saduak floating while Less than an hour’s drive to the west is Suan Pheung. This is a favourite recreational area popular with folk from Bangkok with ample natural and manmade attractions. |